FBI picks new CIO

The FBI has named a new chief information officer as it continues work on a reorganization plan that includes an overhaul of its computer systems.

Darwin John will take over from interim CIO Bob Dies.

In May, FBI Director Robert Mueller announced plans to reorganize the bureau and specifically mentioned updating its computer systems, which have been criticized as outdated and a hindrance to effective communications and information analysis. The revamp at the crime-fighting and counter-intelligence agency is just one part of a larger push by the federal government to strengthen its cyberdefenses in the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

At the FBI, John will lead development of IT strategies and work with the Laboratory, Criminal Justice Information Services and Information Resources divisions, which handle forensic technologies, law enforcement services, and investigative and administrative support.

John brings a "demonstrated capability to achieve broad-based results in an area critical to the FBI's success, particularly at a time when the bureau is modernizing its information technologies--while reorganizing and
re-engineering--and undergoing unprecedented change in its investigative mission and priorities," Mueller said in a statement.

John formerly served as managing director of information and communications systems for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Salt Lake City, where he oversaw the creation of the Family Search site. The Web site, launched in 1999, links people to a database of 900 million names and averages 7 to 8 million hits per day.